What are the safest ways to gather resources in the Lava Biome on the Center map in ARK: Survival Evolved?

The Lava Biome on the Center map in ARK: Survival Evolved is one of the most dangerous areas in the game, but it is also rich in valuable resources like metal, obsidian, and crystal. Gathering resources here requires careful planning, preparation, and execution to ensure survival. Below is a detailed guide on how to safely gather resources in this biome.

First, understanding the mechanics of the Lava Biome is crucial. The area is filled with hostile creatures such as Carnotaurus, Raptors, and even the occasional Rex. The terrain is treacherous, with lava flows that can instantly kill you or your tames if you fall in. Additionally, the biome has extreme heat, which can drain your health and water levels quickly if you are not prepared. To counter these challenges, you need to bring the right gear, tames, and supplies.

Preparation is key. Before venturing into the Lava Biome, ensure you have a strong mount, preferably a high-level Argentavis or a Rex. Argentavis is excellent for carrying heavy loads of resources, while Rexes provide protection against predators. Equip yourself with a good set of armor, such as Flak or Riot gear, to reduce damage from attacks and environmental hazards. Bring plenty of water, medical brews, and food to sustain yourself. A crossbow or longneck rifle with tranq darts can be useful for taming creatures or defending yourself.

When gathering resources, start by scouting the area from a safe distance. Use your mount to fly or walk around the edges of the biome to identify resource nodes and potential threats. Metal nodes are often found on rocky outcrops, while obsidian and crystal are located on higher elevations. Avoid areas with dense concentrations of predators unless you are confident in your ability to handle them.

One effective strategy is to build a small outpost near the edge of the Lava Biome. This outpost should include a bed for respawning, storage boxes for resources, and a feeding trough for your tames. Having a nearby base allows you to quickly deposit resources and recover if things go wrong. If you are playing solo, consider taming a pack of Raptors or a pack of Dimorphodons to assist in combat. These creatures can swarm and distract enemies, giving you time to escape or fight back.

When gathering resources, always stay on your mount. Dismounting in the Lava Biome is extremely risky due to the high number of predators. Use your mount to break resource nodes and carry the materials. Argentavis, for example, can carry large amounts of metal and obsidian, making it ideal for resource runs. If you are using a Rex, be cautious of its slower movement speed and ensure it has high health and damage stats to handle any threats.

Common mistakes to avoid include venturing too deep into the biome without a clear escape route, underestimating the number of predators, and not bringing enough supplies. Always have a plan for retreating if you encounter a large group of enemies. Additionally, avoid flying too close to the lava, as the heat can damage you and your mount, and falling into the lava is almost always fatal.

Advanced techniques include using a Quetzal with a platform saddle to create a mobile resource-gathering base. This allows you to carry an Ankylosaurus or Doedicurus to harvest resources more efficiently. Another optimization is to use a Cryopod to quickly deploy and store tames, reducing the risk of losing them to predators or environmental hazards.

Resource requirements for a successful trip include a high-level mount, strong armor, weapons, and plenty of food and water. If you are in a tribe, coordinate with your teammates to cover more ground and protect each other. Solo players should focus on stealth and quick resource gathering to minimize exposure to danger.

In summary, gathering resources in the Lava Biome on the Center map requires careful preparation, the right tames, and a solid strategy. By following these steps and avoiding common mistakes, you can safely harvest the valuable resources this biome has to offer. Always prioritize safety and have a backup plan in case things go wrong. With the right approach, the Lava Biome can become a reliable source of metal, obsidian, and crystal for your survival and progression in ARK: Survival Evolved.